Thai Salad with Peanut Sauce
Patricia Packard
This Thai Salad with Peanut Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a burst of flavor, texture, and color in every bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 35 minutes mins
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal
- For the Peanut Dressing:
- ½ cup coconut milk
- ¼ cup peanut butter smooth or crunchy
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option
- 1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- For the Salad:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 14- ounce package extra firm tofu pressed and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper thinly sliced
- 2 green onions chopped
- ¼ head red cabbage shredded
- 4 carrots julienned or grated
- 10 ounces baby spinach and spring mix Earthbound Farm Organic or similar
- ¼ cup crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for garnish
Make the Peanut Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, and kosher salt until smooth.
Tip: If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water or more coconut milk to thin it to your desired consistency.
Cook the Tofu
Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 10-12 minutes.
Tip: Pressing the tofu before cooking helps it crisp up beautifully and absorb flavors better.
Prepare the Vegetables
While the tofu is cooking, slice and chop all the vegetables as directed. Keep them colorful and fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Tip: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform cuts and to save time.
Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, toss together the spinach and spring mix with the prepared vegetables. Add the cooked tofu on top.
Tip: Wait to dress the salad until just before serving to maintain crunch.
Add Dressing and Garnish
Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad. Top with crushed peanuts, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.
Tip: Serve the dressing on the side for guests to drizzle themselves—this keeps leftovers fresh longer.
Quick Buttermilk Substitute: For a tangy touch, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice into ½ cup of any plant-based milk.
Add a Kick: Include a chopped Thai chili or a dash of sriracha to the dressing if you like heat.
Go Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter and omit peanuts if needed.
Common Mistake: Overdressing the salad can make it soggy. Add dressing gradually.